Electric tractors: why the skepticism and is it justified?
When you ask farmers about their dream tractor, not many of them will mention an electric model. Some might be surprised to learn that electric tractors exist at all. A degree of skepticism is understandable. It is hard to imagine that a battery-powered machine could ever generate power equivalent to a diesel engine.
Yet that is precisely what some manufacturers claim their electric tractors can do.
Emerging technology
While the technology is still regarded as “emerging”, several leading companies now produce electric tractors. The market share of these machines is still very small when compared to that of traditional diesel models. However, interest in the electric alternative is on the rise, with farmers recognising potential upsides such as zero emissions, healthier work environments, noise reduction and cheaper running costs. At a time when farmers are being incentivized to pursue green initiatives and rethink their relationship with nature, an electric tractor may well offer a means of reshaping that relationship entirely.
A look at what’s available
Some of the world’s largest tractor manufacturers, including Farmtrac, New Holland and John Deere, have recently unveiled their new electric tractor models. Farmtrac’s FT25G became one of the first electric tractors available for sale in Ireland. Powered by a 72V lithium-ion battery, this is a smaller tractor that is best suited to lighter work on dry ground.
Another option for lighter work is the Fendt e100 V Vario which, according to the manufacturers, is all about sustainability and compatibility. With low noise, zero emissions and excellent maneuverability, this tractor is ideal for lighter tillage work and would be a great fit for farms powered by solar panels.
The Farmtrac and Fendt models are not suited to heavier duty work. However, much more powerful electric tractor models have now been developed. New Holland’s T4 Electric Power is a serious machine, boasting 65 PTO rated horsepower (48kW), 4-wheel drive and a maximum speed of 40 kph – all of which makes it a suitable choice for those engaged in heavier duty work. The T4 also comes with all comforts you would expect from a brand-new diesel New Holland, so you won’t have to make any serious sacrifices on that front.
If the New Holland isn’t to your liking, John Deere is now developing their electric tractor range. Word on its models to date sounds very promising, with the company claiming that its machines will be “as quiet as a car, as easy to drive as a golf cart, and require minimal upkeep, all while providing the same performance as a diesel utility tractor.”
Potential downsides?
The main concerns regarding the viability of electric tractor are price and driving range. This is unsurprising, given that similar concerns have hampered the electric car market in the past. However, these concerns are likely to become less relevant over time, as the technology improves and market demand and production increase.
For now, the wisest thing most of us can do is keep an eye on developments in the science of these machines. As driving range increases, so will interest. There may come a day when we all find ourselves looking for a solid electric tractor. After all, there can be little doubt that the future is electric.
